Transport Canada has raised a serious aviation safety concern involving Air India after the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) alleged that one of the airline&rsquo;s captains was under the influence of alcohol before duty at Vancouver airport.
The incident led to a delay of Air India flight AI186, which was scheduled to operate from Vancouver to Delhi via Vienna on December 23, 2025. Air India confirmed that a cockpit crew member was removed from duty shortly before departure after Canadian authorities questioned the pilot&rsquo;s fitness to operate the flight.
According to the airline, the crew member was taken for further inquiry following concerns flagged by local authorities. In line with safety procedures, an alternate pilot was assigned, resulting in a last-minute delay. Air India expressed regret over the inconvenience caused to passengers and stated that it is fully cooperating with Canadian officials.
The airline also confirmed that the pilot has been taken off flying duties pending the outcome of the investigation. Air India reiterated its zero-tolerance policy towards violations of aviation safety rules, stating that strict disciplinary action would follow if any breach is confirmed.
In a letter dated December 24, 2025, Transport Canada informed senior Air India officials that two breathalyser tests conducted by the RCMP indicated the pilot was under the influence of alcohol and unfit for duty. The Canadian aviation regulator said the incident constituted a violation of Canadian Aviation Regulations, including CARs 602.02 and 602.03, along with conditions under Air India&rsquo;s Foreign Air Operator Certificate.
The letter noted that enforcement action is likely to be initiated by both the RCMP and Transport Canada. Canadian authorities have also directed Air India to implement corrective measures and submit a detailed response outlining findings and actions taken by January 26.

Flight delayed in Vancouver after RCMP flags pilot’s fitness for duty

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Flight delayed in Vancouver after RCMP flags pilot’s fitness for duty

January 2, 2026 | 19:00 IST